Volkswagen’s ID.3 Successor is the new ID.3 NEO

The ID.3 NEO will debut in April with extensive updates over the outgoing ID.3 and Volkswagen will be hoping the changes are enough to set it apart from their early models that were delivered with glitchy software back in 2020. Volkswagen has been iterating their software and vehicle line-up since then with much needed improvements, but this looks to be a rethink and reset.

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, says: “The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models. The new Volkswagen electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments – ID. Polo1, ID. Polo GTI1, ID. Cross1 – will also soon be launched on the market with these new innovations, offering more flexibility in everyday life and for leisure activities.”

Guess what - it’s the ID.3 NEO

Volkswagen aren’t just fettling with the ID.3, because the ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 will be getting a major software update as well as updating the hardware to future proof it for regulatory requirements, but enabling future updates. More on that below.

Volkswagen break this down into three core components:

Additional services

A new ‘Innovision’ infotainment system and a new app store has been integrated into the new infotainment system. Volkswagen claims “popular apps from areas such as audio, video streaming, parking, charging and gaming are available for download…”

Digital vehicle key

A digital key is now available as an option for all models. This enables keyless entry and to operate the car just from having the mobile phone present without needing a physical key. Volkswagen says this doesn’t require a special app, but uses an encrypted communications with the car at close proximity.

It should enable the driver to walk up to the car, open the door, get in, clip in their seatbelt and select drive making for a more seamless, fuss free experience.

In another development, Volkswagen states that all future ID. models will have physical buttons the steering wheel for improved intuitive operating, something that customers had criticised Volkswagen for and they listened.

Vehicle-to-Load

For the first time Volkswagen can offer Vehicle-to-Load in their ID. models enabling power to electrical devices directly from the vehicle battery.

Rated at 3.6 kW, it will enable customers to run devices such as an electric grill, coffee maker or charge an e-bike and much more.

Customers will be able to use a 3-pin socket in the car, or for greater flexibility, they could also purchase a separate adapter that plugs into the charging port.

ID.3 NEO

Volkswagen has been working on a new 140 kW (190 PS) motor and battery improving torque and efficiency compared to the outgoing cars fitted with the previous generation motors.
It increased the range of the ID.4 by up to 25 miles (WLTP) in combination with a new 58 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery.

The software and hardware changes are coming first to the ID.3 Neo and we should see full specs and pictures of this in April.
Following that, the same tech will find its way into the ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, and ID Cross.

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About the Author

Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.

You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.